Young leaders … A group of Overnewton students including Cassandra, Sarah and Victoria, seated: Natalie, Edward and Dylan are calling for safer clothing to be worn by motorcylists. 66391 Picture: SARAH MATRAY
By Natalie Gallenti
A GROUP of Overnewton Anglican Community College students will take their fight to see motorcyclists wear safer clothing to the chambers of Parliament House.
The six teenagers have written a piece of proposed legislation calling on the government to introduce mandatory safety clothing as part of Youth Parliament.
Team member Victoria Tsiolis said the team believed the current standard of motorcycle attire was “too relaxed and unsafe”.
“We’re hoping that by setting a standard for what motorcyclists must wear, we can save lives and limit the extent of injuries,” Victoria, 16, said.
The Avondale Heights resident said young people often felt like their opinion was not heard.
“I think young people just don’t know how to go about having their voices heard.
“But young people can have a voice. They can make a difference and make a change.”
She said if the team was successful, they would feel a huge sense of accomplishment and it would highlight the importance of young leaders within the community.
Delivered by YMCA Victoria in conjunction with the Office for Youth, the program includes three days of debating in the Parliamentary Chambers as well as an official reception at Government House.
All bills passed by the Youth Parliament will be considered by the appropriate ministers for consideration.
The event will take place in early July.
